‘Critical’ Red Flag Fire Warning Across Most of Texas Amid Strong Winds
March 12, 2025
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A red flag warning is in effect for much of Texas as strong winds and low humidity create a heightened wildfire risk, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
The warning, which covers central, western and northern Texas, is expected to remain in place throughout most of Wednesday.
Why It Matters
A red flag warning is issued when weather conditions significantly increase the likelihood of wildfires. This includes a combination of sustained winds of 20 miles per hour or more, relative humidity levels at or below 15 percent, and warm temperatures.
The warning comes as Texas faces persistent drought conditions in several regions. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, parts of the state remain in severe to extreme drought, leaving vegetation dry and highly flammable.
The aftermath of a wildfire in Stinnett, Texas, in 2024. A red flag warning is in effect for much of Texas on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. The aftermath of a wildfire in Stinnett, Texas, in 2024. A red flag warning is in effect for much of Texas on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. Julio Cortez/AP
What To Know
Red flag warnings are in place across large parts of central and western Texas on Wednesday, from around 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET. Further warnings have also been issued for Thursday afternoon.
Sustained winds of 35 mph will be experienced across many regions on Wednesday, with gusts of up to 55 mph.
Meanwhile, relative humidity will plummet to as low as six percent in some areas, and fuels such as grass and wood will be “critically dry,” according to the NWS.
The NWS has advised all individuals in red flag warning areas to avoid outdoor burning and to extinguish cigarettes inside vehicles.
“Rapid spread of wildfires is possible due to strong westerly winds and low humidity,” the agency said.
“Avoid the use of open flames or any activities that may generate sparks. Extinguish smoking material in vehicles. Accidental ignitions will have the potential to grow into dangerous wind-driven wildfires.”
It added: “Never leave a fire unattended. Sparks or embers can blow into leaves or grass, ignite a fire, and quickly spread.”
What People Are Saying
The NWS office in Fort Worth wrote on X, formerly Twitter, on Wednesday: “A few strong/severe storms are possible today mainly from the Metroplex northeast. Dangerous fire weather conditions will develop across our western counties this afternoon as winds increase and humidity drops. A red flag warning is in effect across the southwest.”
The NWS office in Austin-San Antonio said on Wednesday: “Today is a critical fire weather day. Avoid activities that would start wildfires such as driving on dry grass, outdoor burning or throwing cigarettes from your window. Strong wind, low humidity and dry vegetation will lead to these critical fire weather conditions.”
In a separate post, the service added: “Another strong wind event is expected to bring extreme fire weather conditions to parts of the Hill Country and Edwards Plateau today. In addition to a red flag warning being in effect for western and central counties, a wind advisory covers western counties with gusts to 45 mph.”
The NWS office in Amarillo said on Wednesday: “Very strong westerly winds will prevail on Friday. At this time, it appears that the strongest winds will be across the western and southern Texas Panhandle where peak winds may be 60 to 70 mph.”
What’s Next
The red flag warning is expected to remain in place until at least Thursday evening, with strong winds continuing into Friday. Fire departments across Texas are on high alert, and local officials are monitoring conditions closely.
Authorities are urging residents to stay updated with NWS alerts and follow all fire safety guidelines to prevent accidental wildfires.
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